Jenny Watson
This article also appears in today's Society.
What's your role during the election ?
The organisation will be monitoring the way the election is run, providing advice to agents and parties, and monitoring party funding for campaigns – but most of that will be done by my staff. My role is to be there if there is some kind of crisis. If our plans work, I should be less busy.
You've said Britain's democratic system is not fit for purpose. What changes do you want to see?
We want any incoming government to have a good look at how to modernise the way we run elections and register votes. Last week we launched our voter electoral registration programme. It is important we reach as many people as possible, especially young people, those in residential care and those with learning difficulties.
What qualities do you bring to this job?
It's important to be able to communicate. You have to have a strong vision – and be brave. You must not give in to pressure. I'm also passionate about democratic politics and encouraging people to participate.
What's your leadership style?
I listen to people, if they have good reasons for things, but I have a very clear vision and the persistence to get to where we need to go.
Have you experienced a glass ceiling?
I haven't, but that doesn't mean it doesn't exist. And my experience is perhaps linked to the fact that I have not had children.
From Bubb's Blog
From Whitehall Watch
